Thursday, August 31, 2017

Any pet owner knows that having an indoor pet means that there is bound to be some amount of sacrifice to your home's cleanliness and decor. While, yes, we would agree with that statement, we also know it doesn't have to be as big of a sacrifice as you think. This week, we're sharing with you a few things that you can do to decorate your home to be more pet friendly.

Use Slip-Proof Rugs

The best rugs feature patterns with a multitude of colors that draw the eye away from dirt, stains, and pet hair. Some rugs do a great job of resisting stains, while others can easily be taken outside and hosed clean. Check the rug label for details. Whichever option you choose, include a non-skid pad or double-sided tape beneath the rug so Fido and Fluffy can run safely through the house. And you'll protect your flooring from getting ruined, too.

Choose Pet Friendly Furnishings

The goal is to choose upholstery fabrics that create less work for you. Avoid chairs and sofas covered in velvet, chenille, or other delicate fabrics that can be easily ruined by pets. Tweed can also be a nightmare to clean because pet hair gets caught in its uneven surface. Instead, opt for stain-resistant fabrics that are durable. Crypton is a nearly indestructible, synthetic fabric that's resistant to stains, smells, bacteria and muddy paws. Leather is an easy fabric to clean and is pretty durable. Just keep a leather repair kit on hand to fix scratches. Denim, canvas, and microfiber or microsuede fabrics are other great, easy to clean choices.

Protect Your Walls

Let's face it, whether they mean to or not, dogs make messes. And big slobbery dogs make even bigger messes. Paint your walls in a semi-gloss-finish paint, especially in rooms that see lots of activity and moisture such as the bathroom and kitchen. This will make wiping down walls after your dog shakes after bath time or drinking much simpler.

If you're sharing your bed with your dog, the dander, dog hair, sweat and drool can often cause your bed to quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria. Rather than spending a bunch of time washing and rewashing your sheets and bed covers every other day, get your dog a PetCot! A raised dog bed can help keep your home cleaner, and it'll keep them off of your couch and bed. It's much easier wipe down a PetCot than it is to wash, vacuum, or roller your entire living room or bed set.

By using these tips for making your home more pet friendly, you'll appreciate the time you'll save with cleaning up after your fur baby. And since these are such minor, inexpensive decor changes, you'll also appreciate that your home hasn't completely been taken over by your pooch and that it can still feel like home! Don't forget to invest in a PetCot bed to give your pooch his own place to call his own in your home. Visit our website to check out the premium pet beds we offer in different colors and sizes to match all home decor!

Thursday, August 24, 2017

While we know our individual owners LOVE having a PetCot pet bed, we also know how much our kennel owner's appreciate them as well. Pet supplies in a kennel must be able to withstand constant use and many different dogs. From big to small, and energetic to lazy, every dog has a different set of needs, and a PetCot bed can help survive all of them. If you work for a kennel, here are a few reasons we think you'll love having our beds in stock!

They're Incredibly Durable

The PetCot dog bed is lightweight but tough enough that it is used in thousands of homes and kennel runs nationwide. Our exclusive cover is heat-sealed seamed, not sewn, with corner-to-corner fabric. The frame is made of strong rust resistant steel tubing (not PVC plastic, which can crack and break). One of the best (and most common) testimonials we receive is that our beds last for a LONG time. If under the rare circumstance that something happens, we offer replacement parts!

They are Very Comfortable and Hygienic

The PetCot dog bed provides comfort and support for pets while alleviating the breeding ground for bacteria and odor that pillow beds provide. Any kennel will be the first to realize that a large number of dogs from many different backgrounds can mean that there are many different germs and odors that come through. Having a hygienic pet bed can help alleviate these occurrences.

The Elevated Design

Our unique 4 ½" elevated dog bed evenly distributes dog's weight while keeping the dog away from excessive cold, heat, moisture and pests. Other cot-style beds on the market are higher elevation making it hard for older pets to get on and off. This can be a huge advantage for kennels, because of the varying ages of the dogs that will be there. If you have older dogs, the height is still easy enough for them to climb up to, and the weight dispersing is extremely comfortable to them.

They Assist with Wellness Care

We know more than anyone that you will have many different pets in your kennel on a day to day basis. From young and frisky to old and wise, you want a bed that can support all stages of life. The PetCot dog bed helps prevent joint-related difficulties and cuts down on elbow calluses. It is great for all dogs and cats and beneficial for arthritic and geriatric pets. The PetCot dog bed evenly supports your pet, unlike filled beds that can clump and become uneven.

Great for Indoors and Outdoors
The rugged construction is perfect for indoor and outdoor use, making our beds a perfect addition to your kennel. The fabric is UV light resistant and fast drying, so whether it gets left out on a rainy day or a sunny day, it will be able to stand up to the elements.

We are proud to have constructed a pet bed that is perfect for kennels and individuals alike. Our beds were created with you and your pets in mind, which is part of what makes them ideal. If you're ready to start using the best pet beds for kennels, visit our website today!

Thursday, August 17, 2017

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and while this particular holiday is typically meant to raise awareness of the importance of vaccines for humans, it still serves as a great reminder that your dogs also need routine vaccines to prevent illnesses and diseases. Vaccinating your dog has long been considered one of the easiest ways to help them live long, healthy lives. With the recent controversy of the risks incurred, you may have some questions about vaccinating. So this week, the PetCot Company offers answers to some common questions around the topic.

What Are Vaccines?
A vaccine is a biological substance designed to protect humans from infections caused by bacteria and viruses. Vaccines help prepare the body's immune system to fight the invasion of disease-causing organisms. Vaccines contain antigens, which look like the disease-causing organism to the immune system but don't actually cause disease. When the vaccine is introduced to the body, the immune system is mildly stimulated. If a dog is ever exposed to the real disease, his immune system is now prepared to recognize and fight it off entirely or reduce the severity of the illness.

How Important Are Vaccines?
When managing the health of your dog, vaccines are very important. However, not every dog needs to be vaccinated against every disease. Your veterinarian will best know what vaccinations are right for your dog. Factors that should be examined include age, medical history, environment, travel habits and lifestyle. Most vets highly recommend administering core vaccines to healthy dogs.

What are Core Vaccines?
Core vaccines are considered vital to all dogs based on the risk of exposure, severity of disease or transmissibility to humans. Canine parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis and rabies are considered core vaccines. Non-core vaccines are given depending on the dog’s exposure risk. These include vaccines against Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi and Leptospira bacteria. Your veterinarian can determine what non-core vaccines are best for your dog, but the core vaccines are a must.

How Often Should You Vaccinate?

Typically it's recommended to vaccinate puppies as early as 6-8 weeks of age and at 3-4 week intervals until the puppy reaches 16 weeks old. After that, your pet's vaccine schedule will depend on the type of vaccine, your dog’s age, medical history, environment and lifestyle. Some adult dogs might receive certain vaccines, such as a rabies vaccine, annually, while other vaccines might be given every 3 years or longer.

Are There Risks or Side Effects?

Immunizations mildly stimulate an animal’s immune system in order to create protection from specific infectious diseases. This stimulation can create mild symptoms, ranging from soreness at the injection site to fever and allergic reactions. Another less common side effect is the development of immune mediated disease following vaccination. Most dogs show no ill effect from vaccination, but as with any medical procedure, there is a small chance of side effects. In most cases, the risks are much smaller than the risks of disease itself.

While there are controversial concerns about the safety of vaccinating, studies have shown that dogs who have been vaccinated live longer, healthier lives than those who have not. And while it may be hard to see your pup get shots, it's better to go through that brief moment of uncomfort than to watch your dog suffer from preventable illnesses and diseases. Vaccines can cause side effects that make your dog tired or sore, so after your pup's annual vaccines, make sure your dog has a comfy place to rest. A premium raised dog bed is perfect for keeping your dog comfortable and give them a place to feel safe after such an eventful visit. Visit our website to order your dog's PetCot bed today!

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

If you have a dog, you probably think of them as a part of the family - your child, your baby! And you take good care of your family, no questions asked. We feel where you're coming from because we, too, love our dogs like they're our children, and we'd do anything to make them happy. Since August 10th has been deemed Spoil Your Dog Day, we've decided to share with you 5 ways to pamper your pooch!

1. Treat Your Pooch to a S-Paw Day
Everyone needs a special spa day to just relax and reset, including your dog! So, pamper your pooch with a nice relaxing day getting pretty and relaxing. Take your dog to the groomer for a bath, hair cut, and nail clip. Then, spend some time giving them a puppy massage, focusing on their paws for sure! You can even YouTube how to give a proper puppy massage if you're unsure of your massage giving skills.

2. Create a Designated Digging Area
What dog doesn't love to dig? We typically attempt to refrain from letting them dig, but it's in their nature. So, instead of battling their natural instinct to hide every single bone or toy you give them, give them a designated digging area that they can let their wild side go crazy! Designate a spot in your yard. Make a heaping pile of dirt and hide some of their favorite toys for them to dig for. This could give them the idea that it's okay to dig anywhere, so it's important to train your dog that this is their special spot and that other areas are off limits. Dogs are smart, so more than likely, your pup will catch on pretty quickly.

3. Go for a Road Trip that Doesn't Involve the Vet's Office
Some people have trouble convincing their pup to "go for a ride", and we understand that. The key to taking your dog for a car ride they'll enjoy is to do it sporadically, no just when they're going to the vet's office. If they begin to see a pattern, they'll associate the car with something unenjoyable. So load up your pooch, roll the windows down, and just enjoy the ride! You don't even have to have a real destination. But we bet if you throw in a surprise trip to the dog park or a pet store, your pup will quickly learn to love road trips with you!

4. Splurge on the Special Treats
Sure, you have the regular treats hanging around your house that you use for praising and training, but you know what we're talking about when we say SPECIAL treats! We mean the meaty, savory goodness that your dog salivates over - whether that's a huge raw beef bone or a scrumptious peanut butter delight, do something above the normal and give your dog something you know they'll love!

5. Pamper your Pooch with a Premium Dog BedWho doesn't want a super comfortable place to wind down and rest their head after a long day of fun and excitement? Your pet is certainly no exception to the rule! Spoil your pooch by upgrading their dirty stinky cushioned bed to a premium raised dog bed from PetCot. The PetCot dog bed provides comfort and support for Pets while NOT providing a breeding ground for bacteria and odor found in pillow beds. They also provide great support for preventing joint-related issues as your pet ages, making them the perfect beds for older dogs. Trust us, your pooch will LOVE this gift!

Now that you have 5 ways to spoil your pooch, you better get to it. Your favorite fur buddy is awaiting your attention! Don't forget to make a quick pit stop at www.PetCot.com to order your pup's premium raised dog bed, because a happy pet makes a happy owner, and a comfortable, spoiled pet is a happy pet!

Wednesday, August 2, 2017

You love your fur baby like a child, and you want to give them the best of everything, but that doesn't mean you want to spend every last dime of your hard earned money covering pet expenses. Pets aren't quite as costly as children, but they do have to be properly cared for, and that can be expensive if you're not careful. So if expense is a concern, you have two options: Get a pet rock, or carefully budget your pet's care. Here are some easy tips for saving a few bucks on pet care costs.

Adopt From Your Local Shelter
Buying a purebred pooch from a pet store or breeder can be very costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars. But adopting from an animal shelter or pet rescue, your adoption fee may only be just $75 to $150. Not only will you be helping a pet in need, but most shelters spay or neuter and de-worm and vaccinate the animals prior to adoption, which saves you money on those costs.

Make a Trade for Pet Services
Do you have a friend that would willingly watch your beloved pooch while you've got to be out of town in exchange for a batch of your famous ooey gooey butter cookies? Take advantage of that easy trade for saving money on pet services! You can exchange just about anything for pet services (accounting, house cleaning, dental care), so play to your strengths. What you get in return can range from walking your dog a few times a week, to cleaning your pet's teeth (if your friend's a veterinarian).

Shop Around and Compare Pricing
If you're the least bit frugal, you probably already compare prices before going shopping for yourself. Why not do the same when buying for your pet? When purchasing pet food or litter, buying in bulk can save you big money, especially if you have more than one animal at home. Clip coupons from your local newspaper and look for store specials to maximize your savings. Look into an online or mail order store like for your pet's medications, they are typically are much cheaper since they don't have a retail markup.

Don't Pay To Have It Done, Do It Yourself
Vets and groomers can be expensive. Although you have to take your pet in for check-ups and procedures once in a while, you can learn how to handle some of the everyday care yourself. Daily brushing not only leaves your pet with a shiny, lustrous coat, but it also helps clear away dirt and matted fur. Bathe your dog yourself. It may take some getting used to, but it can save you quite a bit in the long run depending on how often your dog needs bathed. You can also ask your vet or groomer to show you how to clip your dog's nails so you can do that at home too.

Practice Preventative Care
Most pets need to get a check-up about once every six months. If you take good care of your cat or dog, those twice-yearly visits will be enough, and you won't have to spend any extra time and money at the vet's office. Waiting until your pet is already sick can turn a $100 veterinarian visit into a $3,000 trip. Follow your vet's recommendations for check-ups so you can nip any potential health problems in the bud.

Invest in a Durable Pet Bed
Sure, you could go to your local supermarket and pick up one of those super expensive pillow dog beds that only last a few months before you have to toss it and buy a new one... OR you could invest in a pet bed that is lightweight, but also tough enough that kennels and veterinary offices nationwide count on it. That is what you will get with a PetCot bed. They are light enough that you can easily pick them up and move them, but strong enough to handle the weight of even your heaviest dog. Our exclusive cover is heat-sealed seamed, not sewn, and with corner, to corner fabric, you won’t feel weakness in the design. Our premium raised pet beds are known for being durable, which in itself will save you money. But if you have a destructive Duke, you don't have to worry about replacing the entire bed. We offer replacement parts at very affordable prices!

There are many ways to cut down on pet care expenses, but these few ways will get you started down the right path to savings! A happy pet makes a happy owner, and a comfortable pet is a happy pet. Are you ready to see why purchasing a PetCot bed will be the last premium pet bed you have to purchase? You can visit our website to view all of the different sizes and colors we have available, and before you know it, it will be shipped to your door!